Parents

First Aid: Frostbite

Exposure to below-freezing temperatures can cause frostbite, a rare but serious condition that requires emergency care. Frostbite can affect any area of the skin, and in extreme cold can develop within minutes.

Signs and Symptoms

aching pain or numbness, most often on hands, feet, face, and ears

skin that feels hard and waxy, with a white or grayish yellow color

What to Do

If you think your child is frostbitten, call the doctor right away. Begin these steps:

Bring your child indoors immediately. Do not try to thaw frostbite unless you're in a warm place (warming and then re-exposing frozen parts to cold can cause permanent damage).

Remove wet clothing.

Do not rub frostbitten parts — treat them gently.

Do not use dry heat — such as a fireplace, oven, or heating pad — to thaw frostbite.

Do not break any blisters.

Warm the frostbitten parts in warm (not hot) water for about 30 minutes.

Place clean cotton balls between frostbitten fingers and toes after they've been warmed.